Festival Express

Festival Express documents the legendary 1970 train tour across Canada, featuring iconic performances by Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead, and The Band. The film captures the raw energy of the live shows alongside the offstage antics and camaraderie of the musicians as they journey from Toronto to Calgary. It offers an intimate look at a pivotal moment in rock history, highlighting both the music and the communal spirit of the era.

Festival Express was largely praised for its vibrant archival footage and capturing the spirit of the 1970s music scene. Critics often highlighted the exhilarating performances and the candid behind-the-scenes moments, though some noted its loose narrative structure. Audiences generally responded positively, appreciating the opportunity to see legendary artists in their prime.

• Captures the chaotic, exhilarating spirit of a legendary rock tour.
• Features electrifying performances from iconic artists.
• Offers a rare glimpse into the camaraderie and culture of the era.

Google audience: Audiences loved the incredible live performances and the authentic, unfiltered look at the musicians and the journey. Many found it a nostalgic and exciting trip back to a golden age of rock and roll.

Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Sundance Film Festival.

The original footage for Festival Express was shot on 16mm film by Frank Yablans, who was initially hired to make a feature film about the tour, but the project was abandoned and the footage was lost for decades before being rediscovered and edited by Bob Smeaton.